Frequently Asked Questions

---

In January 1994, Steve Schinker began his career in a two-week insurance bad faith jury trial before Judge Richard Matsch in United States District Court of Colorado where he questioned lay and expert witnesses, argued motions, and assisted co-counsel that resulted in a successful jury verdict for their client.   Steve's experience includes civil litigation and trials involving professional negligence, construction, contracts, and insurance along with appellate work.  If you are interested in whether his experience is right for you, the first step is to have a conversation and explore a potential relationship.  By phone: Call 303-319-2924 and leave your name, business name,  and phone number.  By email: Send an email to steve@essentialcounsel.com with your name, business name, phone number, and generic description of desired business/legal service.  We will respond  within one business day. 

Steve began his career in Colorado Springs and Denver and was one of the "pioneer" residents of Highlands Ranch.   He has appeared in courts from Fort Collins to Pueblo.  We proudly serve businesses across all of Colorado.   As General Counsel, we hold on-site meetings with executive and management teams at your convenience.  For other matters, we provide modern business and legal services remotely utilizing video, teleconferencing, and electronic document exchange.  

We offer clients a flat fee, contingency fee, or hourly fee compensation model depending on the engagement and the client's preference.  As a fiduciary, we only charge a reasonable fee with the client's approval. Fees are in writing, transparent, and predictable.